Please remember to vote on May 4

Coming soon to Arno…

May 1

Bond Volunteer day at APHS 9-11

May 3

Virtual Kindergarten Roundup 6:30- link is below to join

www.youtube.com/c/AllenParkPublicSchools

Happy Teacher Appreciation Week!!

May 4

Bond VOTE – Please vote in the AP bond election!

Fire Drill 10:30

May 6

PTA Appreciation Lunch

PTA Meeting 6:30

May 7

Teacher PD- Early dismissal 11:30

May 10 

Fire Drill 10:30

May 14

ALICE EVAC Drill 2:00

May 21

APMS Scheduling 9:00 for 5th grade

May 31

Memorial Day- No school

ARNO VISION

ARNO ELEMENTARY WILL PROVIDE A SYSTEM OF SUPPORT TO EMPOWER

AND INSPIRE STUDENTS TO BECOME COLLABORATIVE LEARNERS

THAT STRIVE FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE-

Bond Information

Please remember to vote if you are an Allen Park resident in the upcoming bond election on MAY 4th!

District Bond Updates

Complete Bond FAQs: https://4.files.edl.io/ade5/02/12/21/133952-371d47cf-1d0d-4f7a-a871-02cf0d3b0e1b.pdf

Building Project List: https://4.files.edl.io/7206/02/04/21/220257-5f3d4404-bd86-41c5-ad7c-5b4763a3dc30.pdf

All Bond information: https://www.allenparkschools.com/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=2084750&type=d&pREC_ID=2134527

Kindergarten Roundup May 4

Arno Kindergarten

Young 5s Program Description

Ways you can show appreciation for your child’s teacher

Teacher Appreciation Week is fast approaching and will take place this year the week of May 3.  The PTA has some wonderful things planned for our staff, and there are also other ways you can show appreciation for your child’s teacher:

• Write a thank you/appreciation note

• Make a special “Thank you” art project

• Record a personal thank you video

• Send them a digital or ecard

• Send them flowers

• Tell your child’s teacher what they love about school

• Give a special note

Looking for Feedback

Allen Park Schools is looking for feedback from all community members regarding the Code of Conduct for any future revisions to the document.  Please use the survey link below to provide us your insight by May 14.

https://forms.gle/5fPoUu3FpS4asqpP8

TEACHER REQUEST PROCEDURE

As we close one school year and begin to plan for the next, student placement is one of our primary considerations.  Our school team of teachers, administrator and social worker spend many hours working together to form classrooms for next year.  We strive to balance classrooms with a blend of students based on academic strengths and needs, social and emotional supports, and the unique personalities of each child.

If you have any special concerns about your child’s placement for next school year, please submit a written explanation of the concern.  For example, “my son is very active and needs to be placed in a classroom where he will have opportunities to move around” or “my daughter struggles with reading and needs a teacher with a strong background in reading”.

We do not/cannot accept any requests for a specific teacher.  Letters requesting a specific teacher will be not be considered.  The one exception is a request for your child to not be placed in a specific classroom based on previous first-hand experience you’ve had with a teacher.  And, that parent concern / issue should be documented in the office.  All such letters are due to the office no later than Friday, May 21, 2021.

This is the same procedure that has been used in previous years and is the same procedure used at Lindemann and Bennie.  If you have any questions or concerns about this process, please feel free to contact my office.

Steve Zielinski, Principal

The M-STEP Will Be Underway in May

M-STEP kicks off on May 4 for 3rd, 4th and 5th grade for all students who have not opted out. Please see the schedule below for testing dates:

ALL testing starts at 9:15.  

COVID-19 INFORMATION

Thank you for ensuring that you go through the elements of the Screening Tool each morning prior to sending your child to school.  This is one way that we can work together to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

COVID-19 health screening questions for families English 021621 (1)

Isolation & Quarantine FAQ (1) (1)

CHILD TAX CREDIT

In order to receive the Child Tax Credit, you must file your taxes.  The 2021 deadline to file taxes is May 17, 2021.

Here is a link to some resources to assist with free tax filing: https://www.unitedway.org/blog/options-for-free-tax-filing

MAY FITNESS CALENDAR

Kindergarten Fall 2021

Believe it or not even with all of the snow on the ground, the fall will be her before we know it!  If you have a child that will entering kindergarten this fall, please take a look at the information and links below to register and get ready for the big day.

K Registration 21 22

21 22 Kinder instruct.

young 5 21 22

Arno Facebook

“LIKE” us to see lots of great updates and photos from school!  Thank you for promoting this social media platform as a positive way to share the good news and great things happening at Arno!

HERE IS THE LINK!  

https://www.facebook.com/arnoelementary/

Remind

Please consider joining Arno Remind at:

https://www.remind.com/join/arno2020

Full directions: remind invite

Coming soon to Arno…

April 4

Hoppy Easter!!

April 5

Class Resumes

April 8

PTA Meeting 6:00- Special Bond Presentation with Mike Darga

April 15

ALICE Drill 10:00

April 20

Fire Drill 10:00

April 28

Fire Drill 2:00

ARNO VISION

ARNO ELEMENTARY WILL PROVIDE A SYSTEM OF SUPPORT TO EMPOWER

AND INSPIRE STUDENTS TO BECOME COLLABORATIVE LEARNERS

THAT STRIVE FOR ACADEMIC EGGSELLENCE

Bond Information

Allen Park Principals note

District Bond Updates

Complete Bond FAQs: https://4.files.edl.io/ade5/02/12/21/133952-371d47cf-1d0d-4f7a-a871-02cf0d3b0e1b.pdf

Building Project List: https://4.files.edl.io/7206/02/04/21/220257-5f3d4404-bd86-41c5-ad7c-5b4763a3dc30.pdf

All Bond information: https://www.allenparkschools.com/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=2084750&type=d&pREC_ID=2134527

Allen Park Public Schools- SOC Program Information

Allen Park Public Schools
Limited Schools of Choice (SOC) Program for
Kindergarten – 8th Grade for 2021-22 School Year

Welcome to Allen Park Public Schools, a district with a tradition of an uncompromising
commitment to excellence. APPS has established a successful Schools of Choice Program for
the past several years and the Board of Education has approved continuation of the program for the 2021-22 School Year.

Frequently Asked Questions:
□ What is the timeline for applications?
▪ Online applications, for Kindergarten through 8th grade, will be available starting
Monday, April 5, 2021 through April 23, 2021 on the district’s website –
https://www.allenparkschools.com/. Please complete a separate application for
each student.
▪ Completed applications must be submitted to schoolofchoice@appublicschools.com on
or before April 23, 2021. No late applications can be accepted.
▪ NOTE: If any information is found to be inaccurate or false, the application will no
longer be considered for acceptance.

□ Current School of Choice Siblings – “Sibling Preference”
By law, the siblings of Schools of Choice students (already attending APPS) have first
priority if an opening exists. However, parents must complete the necessary application
paperwork during the open application period. After the application window closes, we will
assess our enrollment numbers. If we have enough openings in the grade level for each
applicant, we will contact you to let you know you can complete the enrollment process. If
we have more sibling applicants in a grade level than we have openings, there will be a
lottery held for just those siblings. Parents will be contacted with their student’s wait list
number at that time. As openings are determined, we will pull from the sibling wait list
before the new family wait list.

□ When will I know if my child has been accepted as a SOC student?
A random lottery will be held on April 30, 2021. A wait list will be generated for each grade
level. You will be contacted by email and/or phone call by May 4, 2021, as to your student’s
position (number) on the waitlist. As enrollment numbers are assessed throughout the
summer we will fill openings from the waitlist in numerical order. The state allows districts
to offer a school of choice opening up until the end of the first week of the 2021-22 school
year. There will be a minimum of one opening per grade level, K-8.

□ Important Deadline: If notified of acceptance in the Schools of Choice Program,
applicants must complete the online pre-enrollment within 8 calendar days of notification. If the enrollment is not completed within this timeframe the student’s slot will be forfeited.
Specific elementary buildings are not guaranteed.

□ Do students, who have attended APPS but have moved out of the district, receive preference in the SOC application process?
No, the state does not allow us to give preference to students who have moved out of the
district. You will be considered a “new” SOC family thus being placed on the waitlist for new
families.

□ What happens if one of my students gets accepted but the others do not?
The student who has been offered a SOC opening can enroll in the district. Your other
student(s) would need to attend your school of residence. However, you can apply for SOC
in the next school year and your student(s) would be given preference, if openings exist,
over new SOC families. This is not a guarantee of enrollment for the following year for
siblings.

□ Should I enroll my student in my district of residence?
Yes, we suggest that you do enroll your student in your district of residence in the event
that you are not offered a SOC position with APPS. This way you are sure to get all the
correspondence from that district.

□ Is there an orientation for School of Choice Families?
Please contact your student’s school for student orientation dates and times.

□ Will SOC guarantee my child’s path through all levels in APPS?
Yes. After completion of any grade level (i.e., elementary or middle) the student will advance to
subsequent level as appropriate.

□ If I am participating in APPS SOC and I move within Wayne County, can my
child continue to attend APPS?
Yes. Please report any changes of address within Wayne County to the Pupil Accounting Office.

□ If I am participating in the APPS SOC and I move out of Wayne County, can my
child continue to attend APPS?
No. At the end of the current school year, the student must register in his/her home district.

□ Will my child receive transportation?
Transportation is not provided to SOC students and is the responsibility of the parent.
Students are expected to arrive and depart from school on time.

Please send additional questions via email to schoolofchoice@appublicschools.com or call
313.827.1154 for assistance.

The Allen Park Community School is an alternative high school geared toward students ages 14-19 that have experienced a lack of success in the traditional high school setting. This school is open to all Wayne County residents. The purpose of the Allen Park Community School Family is to introduce, increase and enhance the social skills, academic ability, civic responsibility and creative expression of the individual in an atmosphere that promotes and supports a sense of community, belonging and the development of a positive
image.
For more information and an application for the Allen Park Community School, please call 313.827.2660.

It is the policy of the Allen Park Public Schools not to unlawfully discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, national origin, religion, height, weight,marital status, handicap or disability. The District reaffirms its long-standing policy of compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations prohibiting discrimination including, but not limited to, Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 USC SS2000d et seq. and 42 USC SS2000e et seq.; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, 20 USC SS1681 et seq.; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 USC S794; the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, 42 USC SS12101 et seq.; Michigan’s Handicappers’ Civil Rights Act, MCL SS37.1101 etseq.; and, the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act, MCL SS37.2101 et seq.

SOC FAQ 21-22

5th Grade M-STEP Will Be Underway

The M-STEP starts in April for all of our 5th graders, although the window is open until May3, please make every effort for your child to be school and on time on testing dates.  Be sure they also get enough rest the night before, and eat a good breakfast.  We are very excited to the scores from our shining stars!

M-STEP Coming up…

4/13                   Social Studies

4/15                   Science

4/20 & 4/22     ELA

4/27 & 4/29     Math

Don’t Forget Breakfast!

April is a month where students take standardized tests. Your child’s ability to learn and succeed in the classroom improves when he or she has eaten breakfast. When your children eat breakfast at home, try to include three different food groups. An example of this might be low-sugar, whole-grain cereal with milk and a glass of 100% fruit juice or a sliced banana on the cereal.  If time is not on your side, that’s okay! Whole grain waffles, a handful of nuts and an apple to eat in the car on the way to school will work. A peanut butter and banana sandwich is also easy to eat on the go and tastes great! Don’t forget that leftovers from the night before can make a good breakfast. Or you could make a fruit smoothie! Blend whatever fresh, frozen, or canned fruits you have on hand with ½ cup of low-fat or non-fat yogurt and you’ve got a delicious breakfast ready to go!  Lastly, you can always pack a breakfast to go the night before, so you don’t have to worry about making breakfast in the morning.

Kindergarten Fall 2021

Believe it or not even with all of the snow on the ground, the fall will be her before we know it!  If you have a child that will entering kindergarten this fall, please take a look at the information and links below to register and get ready for the big day.

K Registration 21 22

21 22 Kinder instruct.

young 5 21 22

Be sure to watch the weather…

Have to love that Michigan weather, right?  While we have certainly had some tastes of spring, we are having cooler days in between that require a jacket for outdoor recess.  Please be sure to check the weather update before sending your child to school without a coat.  Students go outside even on cool days and we do not have an area for those without a coat to remain in.  Thank you for you help on this.

Arno Facebook

“LIKE” us to see lots of great updates and photos from school!  Thank you for promoting this social media platform as a positive way to share the good news and great things happening at Arno!

HERE IS THE LINK!  

https://www.facebook.com/arnoelementary/

Remind

Please consider joining Arno Remind at:

https://www.remind.com/join/arno2020

Full directions: remind invite

Congratulations to this year’s Founder’s Day Awards!

We are so proud of you!!

Katie Jensen, Outstanding Educator

Cathy Anderson. Outstanding Support Personnel

Justin from Huron-Clinton Metro Parks, Outstanding Program

Coming soon to Arno…

March 1

Tornado Drill 2:00

March 2

Dr. Seuss’s Birthday

March 4

PTA Virtual Meeting 6:30

March 12

End of Second Semester

March 16

Tornado Drill 2:30

March 17

Happy St. Patty’s Day!

March 19

No School- Teacher PD

Report Card Released

March 23

Fire Drill 2:00

March 27-April 4

Spring Break!!

Arno Vision

Arno Elementary will provide a system of support to empower

and inspire students to become collaborative learners

that strive for academic excellence

Title I/School Improvement Surveys

It is that time of year… we are in need of your opinion of how things are going at Arno for school improvement planning.  Please take a moment and complete this year’s survey that has taken our remote status into consideration. We survey three groups annually- staff, students in grades 3-5, and parents.  This valuable information goes into our school improvement planning so Arno can be its very best!  The link will be active until March 9.  Thank you for your participation in helping us always improve!

Survey Link:

http://bit.ly/arnoparent

District Bond Updates

Complete Bond FAQs: https://4.files.edl.io/ade5/02/12/21/133952-371d47cf-1d0d-4f7a-a871-02cf0d3b0e1b.pdf

Building Project List: https://4.files.edl.io/7206/02/04/21/220257-5f3d4404-bd86-41c5-ad7c-5b4763a3dc30.pdf

All Bond information: https://www.allenparkschools.com/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=2084750&type=d&pREC_ID=2134527

APPS MAY BOND ELECTION – “TOP TRENDING TOPICS”

“Is the pool at Allen Park Middle School being renovated in this bond”

Yes, a complete renovation is included in the proposal for the APMS pool/pool area; the architectural work also includes upgraded lighting in the pool area.  $970,195 has been allocated within the bond proposal for the pool renovation project.

The additional space for the STEM/robotics at APMS is separate from the pool space.

“How about replacing the football, soccer field and track at Allen Park High School?”

Yes, the bond proposal includes athletic facilities upgrades at APMS and APHS as follows from the FAQ document:

Kindergarten Fall 2021

Believe it or not even with all of the snow on the ground, the fall will be her before we know it!  If you have a child that will entering kindergarten this fall, please take a look at the information and links below to register and get ready for the big day.

K Registration 21 22

21 22 Kinder instruct.

young 5 21 22

**Please watch for 2021-22 School of Choice Information coming soon

UPDATED Wayne County Family Screening Tool

COVID-19 health screening questions for families updated 2.17.2021

March is Reading Month

Another fun immersion in reading awaits our Cougars this month! Find out about all of March is Reading Month plans below!

March is Reading Month March Reading Madness 

This year to celebrate March is Reading Month, our entire school will be having our very own March Reading Madness Tournament of Books. A variety of books will be enjoyed throughout the month in all grade levels. 

March Reading Madness Tournament of Books Each week all grades will listen to the same three books in the tournament and vote for their favorite at the end of each week. The school‘s weekly overall favorites, The Final Three, will move on to “compete” against each other, with students 

voting for their favorite book to be the winner of March Reading Madness! 

During the last week of the tournament, March 22–26, The Final Three books will be revisited and students will vote for the “Arno National Book Champion” on Thursday. The winner will be revealed on Friday, March 26. 

Mr. Zielinski will do a live Zoom reading of the “Arno National Book Champion” during the school day on Friday, March 26 to celebrate our winner and the end of March is Reading Month 

Unplugged Tuesdays 

March 2, 9, 16, 23

Turn off electronics... and turn on your imagination! Every Tuesday night in 

March “unplug” and spend some quality time with your family! 

Fashionable Fridays Each Friday dress up to celebrate March is Reading Month!

March 5: Paw–sitively Wild About Reading–Wear Animal Print

March 12: Team Up for Reading–Wear sports apparel 

March 26: We “read” all month! – Wear red 

March Reading Madness! 

All March is Reading Month info plus the calendar:

MIRM 2021

Arno Facebook

“LIKE” us to see lots of great updates and photos from school!  Thank you for promoting this social media platform as a positive way to share the good news and great things happening at Arno!

HERE IS THE LINK!  

https://www.facebook.com/arnoelementary/

Remind

Please consider joining Arno Remind at:

https://www.remind.com/join/arno2020

Full directions: remind invite

Coming soon to Arno…

Feb. 4

PTA Virtual Meeting 6:30

Feb. 5

No School- Teacher PD

Feb. 14

Feb. 15 & 16

No School- Winter Break

Feb. 18

Picture Day

Arno Vision

Arno Elementary will provide a system of support to empower

and inspire students to become collaborative learners

that strive for academic excellence

Picture Day Coming Feb. 18

Picture Day for Arno Elementary is scheduled for Thursday, February 18, 2021.

This Picture Day event’s Order Code is 50419KF.

This is the direct link for parents if you wish to order online and your child is being photographed on 2/18, https://inter-state.com/FlyerEntry/50419K.  The picture day is provided online when parents click on the link.

**Virtual families, we will get more info out for you to schedule you to come in

We are so EXCITED to have our students back in class! Please review the following return information below:

NWEA Testing

This month with our students back in the classroom we will giving the reading and math Winter NWEA test.  Please stay tuned for more specifics testing information from your classroom teacher.

February is Black History Month!

Every day this month, the Arno students are learning about a special Black American in history – ranging from Rosa Parks to Lebron James! During these daily videos, students are learning interesting facts and accomplishments by past and present scientists, athletes, artists, activists and more – all from our very own Arno Teachers!  In addition to learning about these leaders and heroes, the students are also discovering important vocabulary and concepts, such as acceptance, diversity, equality and racism. Classroom teachers are also extending instruction with various activities and literature.

Keep the conversation going at home! Ask your child who they learned about in each day’s lessons. Use multiple resources to do more research – like YouTube, multiple websites, books, and museums and institutions.

Some great websites to learn together at home include:
https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/explore/history/black-history-month/
https://www.education.com/activity/black-history-month/
https://www.kidsacademy.mobi/storytime/celebrating-black-history-month/

Museums/Institutions (Please keep in mind that these institutions are limiting attendance due to COVID 19, view their website for more details)
Henry Ford Museum – https://www.thehenryford.org/current-events/calendar/black-history-month-celebration/

Motown Museum – https://www.motownmuseum.org/
Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History – https://www.thewright.org/
Detroit Historical Museum – https://detroithistorical.org/detroit-historical-museum/plan-your-visit/general-information
Detroit Institute of Arts – www.dia.orgWe are so proud of the diversity at Arno, and the new learning happening everyday! Keep it up, Arno Cougars!

From the PTA…

Hi Arno elementary families,

Introducing a great new fundraiser called Givebacks! You get to save on things you can actually use – and our PTA gets up to 20% back!

Help us support our school.

Here’s what you need to do:

1. Go to our eStore https://arnopta.memberhub.store/store?category=Sponsors to shop, save, and support.
2. Our PTA automatically gets up to 20% donated back!
3. We’ll be adding new Givebacks about every week from brands you know and love, plus some new finds to discover.

This is the perfect way to jump start your holiday shopping!

It’s that Simple – CLICK – SAVE – SUPPORT

Don’t forget to share your purchases on social media! The more you share, the more funds we raise.

Thanks!

Arno pta

P.S. If YOU own a business and you’re interested in doing a Givebacks to benefit our school, please let us know! We want to include your business.

March is Reading Month

Information coming soon on this as we discuss how to handle this event this year.  Also coming in March, the PTA will be hosting a virtual book fair- certainly something to look forward to!

Arno Facebook

“LIKE” us to see lots of great updates and photos from school!  Thank you for promoting this social media platform as a positive way to share the good news and great things happening at Arno!

HERE IS THE LINK!  

https://www.facebook.com/arnoelementary/

Remind

Please consider joining Arno Remind at:

https://www.remind.com/join/arno2020

Full directions: remind invite

Coming soon to Arno….

Jan. 4 2021

Classes Resume Remotely

Jan. 15

No school- Teacher PD

Jan 18

No School- MLK Observed

Arno Vision

Arno Elementary will provide a system of support to empower

and inspire students to become collaborative learners

that strive for academic excellence

Happy New Year Cougars!  As we start 2021. our current remote schedule will continue through at least January 22.  This month the Board of Education will once again evaluate the current learning plan, review the current Covid data, and make the best decisions to move Allen Park students forward.  The district will notify you of any changes to the current remote plan should it change.  Until then, please plan on having your child on Google Meet (the district has made the switch from Zoom) and follow your teacher’s current schedule.  Looking forward to a better 2021!

Steve Zielinski, Principal

Congrats!!

The annual Founder’s Day Awards were announced at December’s PTA meeting.  Congratulations to all our winners!  The award winners will be recognized for their accomplishments in the near future.

Outstanding Educator

Katie Jensen

Support Person

Cathy Anderson

Outstanding Program

Huron-Clinton MetroParks

REMOTE LEARNING ATTENDANCE

Our Arno staff is working extra-hard to create a vibrant and engaging online learning experience for our students until our return.  Please make every effort to ensure that your child is attending class Google Meet, intervention time, appointments with special service providers, and completing all assigned classwork.  We know that the remote learning environment poses many challenges, and we appreciate you working together as partners with us.  We need to be able to connect with your child online to provide the best supports possible so all of our Cougars can reach their greatest potential!

Social/Emotional Forgiveness Theme for January

Forgiveness means choosing to
let go of anger and resentment
toward yourself or someone else.
Students learn how to forgive
themselves and others if they’ve
made a mistake, caused an
accident, or hurt someone as a
result of their actions. Forgiveness
has been shown to improve
relationships, decrease anxiety
and stress, lower blood pressure,
lower the risk of depression, and
strengthen immune and heart health.

Forgiveness S.E.L. Monthly Newsletter

ForgivenessBreath

ForgivenessCalendar

Let’s get moving in 2021!

Mrs. Smalley’s January Exercise Calendar

January 2021 Exercise Calendar-2

On the bottom of each district device is a barcode sticker. To quickly assist you with the issue, please provide us with that number on the sticker when submitting your request below.

Furthermore, if you have an issue with logging into an account, please provide us with your child’s student user ID number when submitting the request.

FOR PARENTS AND STUDENTS ONLY:

CLICK HERE TO ACCESS THE HELP REQUEST FORM

The Technology department has daily open hours from 1-3 pm at Riley door 6 for anyone to come to us with Chromebook problems or damage.  

To update your Chromebook to the newest Operating System please follow this video

https://partnerdash.google.com/apps/simulator/chromebook#update-your-chromebook

If you need to sign a pdf from your Chromebook please add the DocHub extension to Chrome.

https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/dochub-sign-pdf-from-gmai/mjgcgnfikekladnkhnimljcalfibijha

If you are having issues with Parent Connect, please send an email to the following address:

parentconnect@appublicschools.com

If you are having issues with Student Connect, please send an email to the follow address:

studentconnect@appublicschools.com

To log in to Clever:

Please use your Google login (2001####@appublicschools.com)

Seesaw login

Please use your Google login (2001####@appublicschools.com)

Think Central

Please use your Google login (2001####@appublicschools.com)

Microsoft Office (portal.office.com)

Please use your Google login (2001####@appublicschools.com)

New Year’s Resolution

Why New Year’s Resolutions Matter More in a Pandemic

Ask yourself these five questions when setting 2021 goals.

BY CHRISTINE CARTER | DECEMBER 28, 2020

Goodbye, 2020! holiday cards announce. What a year! we exclaim to each other. We can’t wait for 2020 to be over. But as we settle into a hard winter, I can’t help wondering: Will 2021 really be any better?

With the vaccines and a new administration coming, many are optimistic. But we are not at the end. We are in what Harvard Business School’s Rosabeth Moss Kanter famously calls the “messy middle,” where everything is hardest.

When everything went sideways this year, we were collectively freaked out—and also energized. We bought groceries for our neighbors and protested peacefully. We bravely adjusted to massive changes in the way we work, educate our children, shop, and socialize. But in the midst of crisis, we’re seeing just how little support our society offers to working parents, the unemployed, and many others who are struggling. Our surge capacity is depleted. The adrenaline is gone. We need a hug—from someone outside of our household.

This is what happens with all big change, and the bigger the change, the more tempted we are to give up, to turn our attention to something shiny or delicious, to seek short-lived hits of pleasure in lieu of long-term meaning.

It’s too early to give up, friends. This messy middle is hard, and the coming year is not likely to be anything close to “normal.” Instead of just waiting—another year, maybe more—for it all to be over, we’ll do better to re-engage with the things that bring us meaning in life. So put down that cookie (I’m talking to myself here) and use this checklist to set your mid-pandemic course correction on the best possible path. Even if it feels like all you’re doing is trying to survive, these questions may help you gain a sense of control amid the uncertainty.

1. What do you want to take with you when this is all over? While I’m sure a lot about 2020 didn’t work for you, this is the time to reflect on what has. If you’re not leaving the house much, what do you like about being home more? Many teenagers are benefiting from increased family time and more sleep. What is working for you?

2. What are some aspirational goals that you could set for yourself? Research shows that setting specific, difficult goals consistently leads to higher performance (if that’s what you’re after). Where in your life would you like to step things up? Perhaps you’d like set up a gratitude practice, or maybe you’d like to spend less time on social media. Where can you do better despite the pandemic (and everything else)? The goal is not to add more pressure to an already difficult time, but to identify goals that could help you feel better and have more energy at the end of the day.

3. What new habit have you wanted to get into for a while now? Maybe you’ve always wanted to be a meditator. Perhaps your doctor wants you to move more. Like it or not, limited travel can make our daily routines more consistent, and that makes this a great time for many people to establish a healthy habit.

4. How can you invest in yourself? What “deferred maintenance” do you need to take care of? What most of us really need right now is rest. Could you resolve to go to bed earlier a few days per week? Or would you have more energy if you improved your diet? Remember, the best resource that you have for making a contribution to the world is YOU. When that resource is depleted, your most valuable asset is damaged. In other words: When we underinvest in our bodies, minds, or spirits, we destroy our most essential tools for leading our best lives.

5. What do you want to feel more of in 2021? Perhaps you want to feel less overwhelmed and more at peace, or maybe you want to feel more connected to others and less isolated. What behaviors or habits have, in the past, elicited the emotion that you are looking for? Maintenance habits (like cleaning up or getting to inbox zero) might make you feel less overwhelmed; finding purpose tends to make us feel more connected.

• SET RESOLUTIONS THAT STICK!

  Download this step-by-step guide to establishing new habits and achieving your goals.

  Get started by using the “annual goals + habits” tab in this free workbook.

  Maintain your success with this free planning system.

Talk with your friends and family about these questions; they are important ones. Once you’ve pondered the above checklist, make a list of your answers, and then cross off the ideas you have for goals, habits, or resolutions that simply aren’t realistic, or that your heart isn’t in. There’s no shame in narrowing things down, especially in the midst of this global crisis! Now, more than ever, that means eliminating “shoulds.”

Once you have a list of wishes for yourself, it’s time to turn them into action. Piles of research show that just dreaming about what you’d like to do, including making resolutions and setting goals, actually reduces the odds that you’ll achieve them. We also have to make specific plans, map out potential obstacles, and find ways to make the process enjoyable.

When done correctly, setting goals and making resolutions can shape our behavior for the better. Our habits can make us feel happier, healthier, and more connected to those around us. These are worthy goals in any year, whether we are in a pandemic or not.

You May Also Enjoy

VIRTUAL TUTORING AVAILABLE

Where: On Zoom!! This year, Allen Park High School’s NHS will be offering Virtual Tutoring for all students that attend AP Public Schools. In order to reach the zoom links, we created a Google Site specifically for this, it’s
(https://sites.google.com/appublicschools.com/nhstutoring/home). A student must be using their school email account in order to access the Google Site.

When: Every Tuesday and Thursday, from 4 PM to 8 PM.

How: There will be three zooms per 30 minute block, divided by sections of grades: K-2, 3-5, 6-12. Every zoom will have a breakout room available to focus on certain subjects if needed. Students will not have to sign up in advance to attend a session. This video helps explain how students can join the Zoom tutoring sessions: https://youtu.be/sBqErzN9EKQ

Who: Each zoom session will have two members from NHS in them to help and monitor the other students.

Resources from the Wayne County Health Department

There are many resources for the fight against Covid on the Wayne County site, along with testing site info, school recommendations, and other helpful info.- including recommendations for the holidays.  Please click the link for more info:

https://www.waynecounty.com/covid19/

Arno Facebook

“LIKE” us to see lots of great updates and photos from school!  Thank you for promoting this social media platform as a positive way to share the good news and great things happening at Arno!

HERE IS THE LINK!  

https://www.facebook.com/arnoelementary/

Remind

Please consider joining Arno Remind at:

https://www.remind.com/join/arno2020

Full directions: remind invite

Coming soon to Arno…

Dec. 2

P/T Virtual Conferences 5:00-7:30

Dec. 3

Early Release-11:30

P/T Virtual Conferences 12:45-3:15 and 5:00-7:30

Dec. 4

Report Card Released via Parent Connect

Dec. 18-Jan 3

Christmas Vacation!!                    

On behalf of all the staff at Arno, we wish you and your family

a very Merry Christmas and a happy holiday season!

Arno Vision

Arno Elementary will provide a system of support to empower

and inspire students to become collaborative learners

that strive for academic excellence

December Spirit Wear week coming up to wrap up 2020

Please take a look at the schedule below as we gear up for the Christmas holiday break!!

Parent/Teacher Conferences 

Please mark your calendar for Dec. 2 and 3 as parent/teacher conferences are just around the corner.  We are conducting them virtually this year, but the process isn’t much different.  As you can see on the chart below, you need to find your child’s teacher and sign up under their “Genius” link.  Then, on your day time, you click the teacher Zoom link to join the conf.  Although it’s a bit different, you will still have the same amount of time with your child’s teacher.  Please let us know of any questions you have- we are hoping for 100% attendance!

SignUpGenius Link ZOOM Link

Chromebook Pickup

Just a reminder that we are now ready to distribute the touchscreen Chromebooks to our students in grades 1-5, in both the Virtual and Remote Learning tracks.  In order to receive a new touchscreen Chromebook, we will need you to return the Chromebook your child recently received, as well as the charger.  

 Please come to Arno on Tuesday Dec 1st outside of the Arno Cafe (Thomas Street) 1-6pm by the Orange Cone.   A helper will come out to your car, take the old device, and give you the new device.  Please do not get out of your car.

PTA Fundraiser at Five Below

Be sure to bring your flier between 11/30-12/12

Facebook Holiday Reading

Be sure to check in to our Facebook page throughout December as I will be reading holiday books, which is usually what happens in the building every December.

HERE IS THE LINK!  

https://www.facebook.com/arnoelementary/

Building up to Kindergarten

This year we have a virtual version of our annual K Readiness presentation that Arno hosts every fall for all preschoolers in the area that will be entering Kindergarten next fall.  Please feel free to share the link with any families that you may know who have a child that will enter kindergarten in the fall- even those who may not be coming to Arno.  Thanks to our kindergarten team with Mrs. Roller, Mrs. Mercer, Mrs. Harrison, Mrs. Haskin, and our Reading Coach Mrs. Wesley for an outstanding presentation that is sure to help our preschool parents!

The link: https://bit.ly/BuildingTOK

PBIS

Even though we are virtual right now, we are continuing to use our building PBIS strategies in our remote classrooms.  One of those traditions that are we will continue is lunch with the principal.  Instead of meeting up for pizza, I will be zooming in with all of our Remote super cougars over lunch so we can enjoy still being together, but in the safety of our own homes.  Each teacher will pick two Super Cougars and will be out with some invites for those students soon.

Reminder on Letters to Santa

The National Honor Society at APHS is sponsoring a letters to Santa campaign.  Please see the flyer for more information on the exciting opportunity.

Copy of Letters to Santa

Attention– Virtual NHS Tutoring Available

Resources from the Wayne County Health Department

There are many resources for the fight against Covid on the Wayne County site, along with testing site info, school recommendations, and other helpful info.- including recommendations for the holidays.  Please click the link for more info:

https://www.waynecounty.com/covid19/

Arno Facebook

“LIKE” us to see lots of great updates and photos from school!  Thank you for promoting this social media platform as a positive way to share the good news and great things happening at Arno!

HERE IS THE LINK!  

https://www.facebook.com/arnoelementary/

Remind

Please consider joining Arno Remind at:

https://www.remind.com/join/arno2020

Full directions: remind invite

Coming soon to Arno…

Nov. 2

RETURN to REMOTE learning effective today

Nov. 3

No School- Voting Day/Teacher PD

Nov. 4

No events

Nov. 5

PTA Meeting Virtual 6:30

Nov. 6

No events

Nov. 9

No events

Nov. 10

No events

Nov. 11

No events

Nov. 12

Picture Day- Will be rescheduled

Nov. 13

No events

Nov. 16

No events

Nov. 17

No events

Nov. 18

No events

Nov. 19

No events

Nov. 20

No events

Nov. 23

No events

Nov. 24

End of the first tri-mester

Nov. 25 

No School- Thanksgiving Break

Nov. 26

No School- Thanksgiving Break

Nov. 27

No School- Thanksgiving Break

Nov. 30

Dec. 1

Dec. 2

Parent/Teacher Conferences 5:00-7:30 VIA Zoom

Dec. 3

Early Dismissal 11;30

Parent/Teacher Conferences 12:45-3:15/5:00-7:30 VIA Zoom

Dec. 4

No events

Wishing all of our Arno Families a Wonderful and Safe Thanksgiving!

ARNO VISION

ARNO ELEMENTARY WILL PROVIDE A SYSTEM OF SUPPORT TO EMPOWER

AND INSPIRE STUDENTS TO BECOME COLLABORATIVE LEARNERS

THAT STRIVE FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

Last Day for the Monster Dash Fundraiser!!

 LAST  DAY  TO  DONATE!!!! 

 We want to see some Monsters Running ‍ ‍ for our Monster Dash!!

 We are at 75% of our goal yet so please register your student if you haven’t!   And Share, share, share!!  https://www.getmovinfundhub.com/register?school_uuid=5d2dde700a4c3

 Post on Flipgrid a video of your kiddo running around the house, the yard, or the neighborhood!! https://flipgrid.com/943eeecb

Allen Park Public Schools Returns to Remote Learning

Please read Superintendent Mike Darga’s letter to the AP community:

Letter to School Community-RETURN TO REMOTE LEARNING (1)

Elementary Remote Schedule

Parent/Teacher Conferences

Our conferences this year will be held virtual on the days and times that they were scheduled for, Dec. 2 and 3.  In November, you will get a signupgenious form and then eventually a link to join your teacher at your time via Zoom.  More details to come…

Social Emotional

Our theme for November at Arno is Gratitude.  Please enjoy some information that you can sit down and share with your child:

Gratitude is mindful thankfulness
and the ability to be thankful
even when things in life are
challenging. When you practice
gratitude you feel thankful and
want to share that feeling with
others. Research has shown that
the benefits of gratitude include
better sleep, increased levels of
happiness, greater connection to
peers and community, and
decreases in stress and anxiety.

Families can use the following discussion
starters and activities with their children:
– “To me, gratitude is…”
– “I show gratitude at school/home
by…”
– “I am grateful for..”

For additional support, these stories support the Gratitude theme:

All the World – Liz Garton Scanlon
An Awesome Book of Thanks – Dallas Clayton
Did I Ever Tell You How Lucky You Are – Dr. Seuss
Just So Thankful – Mercer Mayer
The Secret of Saying Thanks – Douglas Wood
Splat Says Thank You – Rob Scotton
Thanks a Million (Poems) – Nikki Grimes
The Berenstain Bears Count Their Blessings – Stan Berenstain
The Giving Tree – Shel Silverstein
The Thankful Book – Todd Parr
Those Shoes – Maribeth Boelts
The Most Thankful Thing – Lisa McCourt
Gratitude Soup – Olivia Rosewood
Bear Says Thanks – Karma Wilson
It Could Always Be Worse – Margot Zemach
There’s a Flower at the Tip of My Nose Smelling Me – Alice Walker
Milo Armadillo – Jan Fearnley
Last Stop on Market Street – Matt de la Pena
Flora and Ulysses : The Illuminated Adventures – Kate DiCamillo
Sorta Like a Rock Star – Matthew Quick

Picture Day 

Nov. 12 was our new picture date for Arno students.  When we have an indication of our return, we will reschedule.   When we do have it, it will of course look somewhat different in terms of lining up, but in terms of a mask-  it will be up to you and your child if you want them to take the mask off just while the picture is snapped.  We are committed to making this a safe, distanced process and look forward to Picture Day 2020!

Parent FAQ from Interstate

https://inter-state-4740283.hs-sites.com/frequently-asked-questions-1

From the Guidance Center…

CDC Thanksgiving Recommendations

Let’s all stay healthy during turkey time by knowing the CDC recommendations for the upcoming holiday season:

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time when many families travel long distances to celebrate together. Travel increases the chance of getting and spreading the virus that causes COVID-19. Staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others. If you must travel, be informed of the risks involved.

Visitor Policy

Please be advised that per the Governors Executive Order, school buildings are to limit non-staff visitors.  If you have any needs from the office, principal, or teaching staff- please contact first via phone or email.  If the need should arise that you must come in, please scan the QR code and complete the screener BEFORE coming into the building.

Arno Facebook

“LIKE” us to see lots of great updates and photos from school!  Thank you for promoting this social media platform as a positive way to share the good news and great things happening at Arno!

HERE IS THE LINK!  

https://www.facebook.com/arnoelementary/

Remind

Please consider joining Arno Remind at:

https://www.remind.com/join/arno2020

Full directions: remind invite

Welcome Back!!!

Coming soon to Arno….

Oct. 5

Welcome back to our ECP and Categorical Special Education Program students!!

Oct. 6

Oct. 7

No school-Cleaning Day- REMOTE learning a.m. only

Oct. 8

Virtual PTA Meeting 6:30

Oct. 9

Oct. 12

Welcome Back to School for Grades Y5, K, 1, and 2!!

Oct. 13

Oct. 14

No School- Cleaning Day- REMOTE learning A.M. only

Oct. 15

Oct. 16

Oct. 19

Welcome Back to School for Grades 3, 4, and 5!!

Oct. 20

Oct. 21

No School- Cleaning Day- REMOTE learning a.m. only

Oct. 22

Oct. 23

Oct. 26

Oct. 27

Oct. 28

No School- Cleaning Day-REMOTE learning a.m. only

Oct. 29

Oct. 30

Early Dismissal 11:30

No School p.m.

Please review the following information on our return.  Please continue to monitor district and building communications regarding the Return to Learn plan as all decisions are based on state data and the safety of students and staff. When your child returns, please review the new procedures below:

Arrival Procedures

Please see the document:Arno arrival_dismissal

In order to be in compliance with the CDC and State of Michigan guidelines regarding COVID-19, Arno Elementary School has made some changes to the daily arrival and dismissal procedures for this year. Upon arrival to school, all students should report to their outdoor classroom lines in social distance proximity.  We have added Cougar paw prints on the walkway leading up to the door to help with distancing.  As students enter the building, they will have their temperature checked then report directly to their classroom to hang their coats, belongings, etc., as well as sanitize their hands.  In order to reduce students being in groups, coat rooms have been expanded to the hallway.  

• Families will complete the COVID-19 Screening Tool for Families (p. 9 of the Virtual Binder) every day prior to sending children to school.  If you answer “YES” to one or more questions, you MUST keep your child home from school that day and consult your primary care provider.

• Arrival time is between 8:30-8:45 am at your child’s assigned entry door (see attachment).

• Students should not be dropped off prior to 8:30 am as there will not be outside supervision for students.

• Upon arrival, if there is a line forming, students should wait on the painted paw prints.

• Arrival beyond 9:00 am will be considered tardy and students must be buzzed in through the front doors of the school.

• Upon arrival at the assigned entry door, students will receive a temperature check and hand sanitizer, then go directly to the classroom.

• Students with temperatures between 99.3℉ and 100.3℉ will be asked to step into a re-screening area and re-checked after 5 minutes.  Students whose temperatures normalize will be sent to class.  Students whose temperatures remain elevated will go to the office for parent contact.

• Students who arrive to school with temperatures of 100.4℉ or above will be taken to the Quarantine Room where parents will be contacted for immediate pickup.

• The beginning of the school day will be a “soft start” as students arrive during the arrival window.  Independent work and quiet activities will be provided as students arrive, prior to the day’s instruction.

Please review the map below for your child’s classroom lineup location.  Students will be shown their exact lineup spots upon arrival. 

Dismissal Procedures

• Dismissal time is between 3:20-3:30 pm at your child’s assigned dismissal door.   

• PLEASE NOTE that the dismissal door may not be the same as your child’s entry door!

• One class will exit each dismissal door at a time.  Your child’s teacher will communicate which order their class will exit the assigned door.

• Parents with multiple children: please meet your youngest child at his or her exit door first.  Make a plan with your older children about where to meet you (wait at their door, meet at a designated spot, etc.).

• Please leave the school grounds as soon as you connect with your child(ren) so as to promote social distancing.

• Mrs. Martinchick’s room- you will exit out of the main office doors on Fox at dismissal

• Mrs. Schultz’s room- you will exit out of the second grade doors on Thomas at dismissal

Early Dismissal

• Please send a note with your child or contact the main office at 313-827-1050 for all early dismissals specifying the time for early pick up. 

• Upon arrival, please use the outside buzzer to inform the office that you are here. 

• The office will send your child out through the main doors to you

• The staff will take care of recording your child’s dismissal 

Half-Day Dismissal

• All procedures for arrival and dismissal will be followed from above

Breakfast

• Bagged breakfast will be provided each afternoon for students to take and eat at home the next morning.

• No breakfast will be provided at school in the mornings.

Lunch 

• All students will eat lunch in classrooms.

• Bagged lunches will be provided through the Food Service Department free of charge until December 31, 2020 or until federal funding expires.  Choices will include hot lunch, soy butter sandwich, or salad kit.  All lunches will be individually packaged.

• Please apply for Free & Reduced Meal Benefits by October 5, even if you think you may not qualify.  Our schools receive additional funding for the number of students eligible for Free & Reduced Lunch:  https://frapps.horizonsolana.com/welcome

• Students may still bring lunches from home if desired.

• Please avoid sending lunches with peanut butter products whenever possible.

• Please practice the process of opening food packages with your child.  Encourage your child to open food packages independently.

• Students will clean hands and desks before and after eating in the classroom.

• Whenever weather permits, students will have outdoor recess in designated zones by classroom.  Masks may be removed during outdoor recess.

• During inclement weather, recess will be held indoors.  Students must wear masks during indoor recess.

Schedule:

Drop off for student items

Please remember to drop off any lunches, folder, homework, etc in the cabinet that is outside of the main doors (Be sure to put a sticky note on with their information).  The secretary will then go get all of the items in there and be sure to get it to your child.  Thank you for your help!

Classroom Information

• Desks have been distanced to best spacing possible per room

• Extra furniture has been removed to maximize classroom space

• There are no carpet areas in the rooms for students to gather to maintain spacing

• Please send your child with a water bottle as drinking fountains will be closed except to fill a cup/bottle with water

• Specials will be conducted in the classroom only.  Gym will go outside as weather permits

• Recess will continue for all levels, the playground will be split and a schedule will be made to space classroom cohorts and limit classroom to classroom interaction

• Small groups will meet per the teachers programming

• Materials like manipulatives, supplies, classroom library, library books etc will have a protocol per the teacher.  Generally this will be limited- if supplies are shared at any time, those materials will be sanitized between use

• Backpacks will be permitted to transport materials and a chromebook

• High touch surfaces will be cleaned periodically throughout the day

• Instructional aides will continue to work with students in small group/individually

• All students and staff will be required to wear a mask throughout the entire day with the exception of eating snack, lunch, gym and recess outside

Technology

Please be sure that your child travels with the district chromebook (if you had one issued) back and forth daily in your child’s backpack.  We are still awaiting the shipment of chromebooks that the district ordered.

Please review all of the information and resources on the district web page at: https://www.allenparkschools.com/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=1691412&type=d&pREC_ID=1848465

NWEA testing in October

This month we will begin our NWEA testing while we are either remote or in person depending on the grade level.  Each classroom teacher will be in contact with families with information on taking the practice test and the test when in remote.  If your child is in session in the building, testing will be conducted as normal.

Visitor Policy

Please be advised that per the Governors Executive Order, school buildings are to limit non-staff visitors.  If you have any needs from the office, principal, or teaching staff- please contact first via phone or email.  If the need should arise that you must come in, please scan the QR code and complete the screener BEFORE coming into the building.

Latchkey Information

Please find registration info regarding the Latchkey Program at the APPS elementary buildings below

COVID Latchkey Registration Letter .pdf
Latchkey Registration Form.pdf

Additional Food Service information

ALLEN PARK PUBLIC SCHOOLS MEAL PROGRAM UPDATES:
GREAT NEWS FOR SCHOOL MEALS FOR FALL 2020-ALL KIDS EAT FREE!
EVEN THOUGH ALL KIDS ARE RECEIVING FREE MEALS, THIS PROGRAM WILL NOT LAST FOREVER. WE WILL
EVENTUALLY HAVE TO RETURN TO OUR REGULAR SCHOOL BREAKFAST AND LUNCH PROGRAM PROCEDURES. THE
DISTRICT ALSO RECEIVES ADDITIONAL FUNDS FOR A NUMBER OF PROGRAMS BASED ON OUR FREE AND REDUCED NUMBERS.

SO, PLEASE FILL OUT THE ONLINE OR PAPER FREE AND REDUCED MEAL APPLICATION. IT WILL HELP YOUR FAMILY AND THE DISTRICT. APPLY ONLINE AT: https://frapps.horizonsolana.com/ALLP01

ALLEN PARK PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOOD SERVICES REMOTE AND VIRTUAL LEARNING FOOD PICK UP WILL CONTINUE ON MONDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS THROUGH OCTOBER 16, 2020.

PICK UP CAR SIDE TO GO MEALS AT: Allen Park High
School Back Main Door 18401 Champaign, Allen Park, MI 48101
Questions? Please contact the APPS Food Services Department if you have any questions at: 313-827-2185.

WE WILL CONTINUE TO SERVE CURBSIDE MEALS ON MONDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS FOR VIRTUAL LEARNERS
THROUGH DECEMBER 2020.
WE WILL SERVE *ALL STUDENTS FREE MEALS* FROM OUR CURBSIDE PICKUP *EVERY WEDNESDAY*. THIS WILL
HAPPEN WHEN ALL OF THE STUDENTS ARE AT HOME PARTICIPATING IN REMOTE & VIRTUAL LEARNING. THIS WILL BE AVAILABLE EVERY WEDNESDAY SO BUILDING MAINTENANCE STAFF CAN DO DEEP CLEANING AT ALL OF THE BUILDINGS.

ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2020:
AT THE ELEMENTARY BUILDINGS:
● EARLY-K, K, 1, AND 2ND GRADES WILL RETURN TO IN-PERSON LEARNING, AGAIN, ON
OCTOBER 12
TH
. WE WILL BE SERVING FREE MEALS AT THE ELEMENTARY BUILDINGS IN THE CLASSROOM

EACH DAY OF IN-PERSON LEARNING (M,T,TH,F), THROUGH DECEMBER 2020.
● THE PREPACKAGED MEALS WILL BE DELIVERED, IN SANITIZED INSULATED BAGS, TO EACH
CLASSROOM EACH DAY.
● THERE WILL BE NO ALA CARTE SALES UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. THIS WILL SIMPLIFY EATING
IN THE CLASSROOM FOR ALL. NO MONEY EXCHANGE WILL TAKE PLACE.
● SMALL CUP DISPENSERS HAVE BEEN INSTALLED BY EVERY DRINKING FOUNTAIN IN ALL
BUILDINGS, TO PREVENT SALIVA FROM ENTERING THE DRINKING FOUNTAINS.
● AFTER LUNCH, THE WONDERFUL LUNCH LADIES WILL THEN PACKAGE BREAKFAST BAGS FOR
THE FOLLOWING DAY. THESE BREAKFAST BAGS WILL BE DELIVERED TO THE CLASSROOM, IN OUR CLEAN
SANITIZED BAGS APPROXIMATELY 45 MINUTES BEFORE DISMISSAL TO BE GIVEN TO THE KIDS. THIS WILL
HELP LIMIT THE AMOUNT OF EXPOSURE TIME FOR STUDENTS EATING IN THE CLASSROOMS WITHOUT A
MASK.

● THE STUDENTS CAN THEN ENJOY THEIR BREAKFAST AT HOME BEFORE COMING TO SCHOOL.
● On Wednesdays during remote learning you can come to the curbside pick-up at the HS
between 10:30 am until 12:30 pm to pick up meals.
● WE WELCOME STAFF MEMBERS TO GRAB A MEAL, TO SUPPORT OUR PROGRAMS.

October 19, 2020
WELCOME BACK ALL STUDENTS FOR FOUR DAYS EACH WEEK IN-PERSON AND REMOTELY
ON WEDNESDAYS!!!
AT THE ELEMENTARY BUILDINGS:

● ALL GRADES WILL RETURN TO IN-PERSON LEARNING AT THE ELEMENTARY BUILDINGS! WE
WILL BE SERVING FREE MEALS AT THE ELEMENTARY BUILDINGS IN THE CLASSROOM EACH DAY OF
IN-PERSON LEARNING (M, T, TH, F), THROUGH DECEMBER 2020.
● THE PREPACKAGED MEALS WILL BE DELIVERED, IN SANITIZED INSULATED BAGS, TO EACH
CLASSROOM EACH DAY.
● THERE WILL BE NO ALA CARTE SALES UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. THIS WILL SIMPLIFY EATING
IN THE CLASSROOM FOR ALL. NO MONEY EXCHANGE WILL TAKE PLACE.
● SMALL CUP DISPENSERS HAVE BEEN INSTALLED BY EVERY DRINKING FOUNTAIN IN ALL
BUILDINGS, TO PREVENT SALIVA FROM ENTERING THE DRINKING FOUNTAINS.
● AFTER LUNCH, THE WONDERFUL LUNCH LADIES WILL THEN PACKAGE BREAKFAST BAGS FOR
THE FOLLOWING DAY. THESE BREAKFAST BAGS WILL BE DELIVERED TO THE CLASSROOM, IN OUR CLEAN
SANITIZED BAGS APPROXIMATELY 45 MINUTES BEFORE DISMISSAL TO BE GIVEN TO THE KIDS. THIS WILL
HELP LIMIT THE AMOUNT OF EXPOSURE TIME FOR STUDENT IS EATING IN THE CLASSROOMS WITHOUT A
MASK.
● THE STUDENTS CAN THEN ENJOY THEIR BREAKFAST AT HOME BEFORE COMING TO SCHOOL.
● ON WEDNESDAYS, DURING REMOTE LEARNING, PLEASE COME TO THE HIGH SCHOOL
CURBSIDE PICK-UP BETWEEN 10:30-12:30 TO PICK UP MEALS FOR BOTH REMOTE AND VIRTUAL
LEARNERS. THIS WILL CONTINUE EVERY WEDNESDAY UNTIL STUDENTS COME BACK TO 5 DAY
IN-PERSON LEARNING. THIS WILL CONTINUE FOR VIRTUAL LEARNERS THROUGH DECEMBER 2020.
● WE WELCOME STAFF MEMBERS TO GRAB A MEAL, TO SUPPORT OUR PROGRAMS.

Traffic Pattern

Parking/Drop-off

As we all need to get our children to school, safety is always the primary concern.    We will do our best to help ensure an orderly drop-off/pick-up daily, but we need your help in making that happen.

** No child should run across the street to get into a car, or out.

**Help our traffic issues around school by parking a block or so away and WALKING your child before and after school.

**School traffic flow MUST go clockwise around the school. Make sure that your passenger door is ALWAYS closest to the curb.

**We now have some volunteers for the dropoff/pickup, but we need more.  Please contact the office if you can help out!

BE SMART! BE PATIENT! BE CARING! BE KIND!!! BE RESPONSIBLE!!

Arno Facebook

“LIKE” us to see lots of great updates and photos from school!  Thank you for promoting this social media platform as a positive way to share the good news and great things happening at Arno!

HERE IS THE LINK!  

https://www.facebook.com/arnoelementary/

Remind

Please consider joining Arno Remind at:

https://www.remind.com/join/arno2020

Full directions: remind invite

Welcome Back to the 2020-2021 School Year!!

Welcome back Cougars!  

We are so very excited to welcome you all to the 2020-21 school year at Arno Elementary.  Although we are starting in a different way this year, we are determined to make this the best year for all of our students!  

I am hoping that everyone found some time to relax, have lots of fun, spend quality time together- and maybe even get a tan… and now we are looking forward to fall and cider mills and getting back to some school work.  As always Arno is dedicated to providing the best education with our caring teachers who have always gone above and beyond every year.  This past summer, many of our staff, as well as parents,  were involved in focus groups that worked through the issues that the current situation has presented, and finding solutions that work best for all of our stakeholders.  We took a look at academics, student and staff safety, specials, special education, and extra curricular items.  The group provided focus and input on the district plan, as well as how we all move forward in both the in-person world- and the virtual one.   

As a result, we have a plan for all scenarios depending on the Phase our region is in, and we plan on making sure our kids don’t just tread water this year- but actually continue their movement forward in their education here at Arno.  

There have been many questions from our parents and I wanted to provide the latest information that you need to know for the upcoming school year.  

• September 2 (First Day of School- Remote learning with classroom teacher): Please save this date!  We will be holding a drive by “meet the teacher” event from 9 am-12 pm on September 2. Students will be able to drive up, say hi to their teacher and teachers will be handing out workbooks or any items that students will need to start the year. More information about this will be coming next week, but as we did in the spring, times to visit will be determined by last name.  Students whose last name starting with:

• A-H will drive by between 9-10am, 
• I-Q can drive by between 10-11am, 
• R-Z can visit between 11am-12pm.   

During the afternoon of September 2, teachers will be hosting their first video meeting to start to get to know students.  They will provide you information about this event.

• Meet the Teacher:  This evening is typically a great opportunity for families to meet their child’s teacher and get to know some of the expectations for the school year.  Since we cannot hold this event in person, teachers will be creating a video that introduces themselves to each student and family and provide a brief overview of some of the important tools students will need to get started with remote learning.  These videos will be released to families on September 2.  They will go out to families via email and will also be posted on our website for families to reference later if needed. 
• Student login information Please follow this link for student directions to log on for the first time. Student’s ID number can be found in the Parent Portal and it’s the number that starts with “2001”. 
• Tech: We are excited that this year students K-12 will all have access to a Chromebook to use in school as well as for virtual or remote learning.  Our elementary students will be getting touch screen devices that can be used as a computer and a tablet.  These have all been ordered, but we are waiting for these devices to be delivered.  
• If you have already requested a temporary device- the tech department will contact you to schedule a date to pick up this computer. The link to request a computer is no longer active but we are taking names for a waiting list.  
• Student schedules will be available August 28, 2020 at 4:00 p.m. for those families that have chosen to stay with their regular classroom assignment. ***Please be sure you have completed all of the Back to School updates that are necessary in order to access your child’s teacher.

Social Emotional Needs of our students

We recognize that the school closure and disruption to normal routines may have had an impact on many students and families.  Please review some of the resources below.  Arno’s new Social Worker, Dana Brown, can be of assistance in this area if you need to reach out to her.  You can find many resources from our district social work page at: 

http://allenparksocialworkers.weebly.com/social-emotional-learning-at-home.html

Sample Elementary Resources for social emotional at-home:

• A-Z Activities for Coping    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5EXpkVw3fh0
• Sesame Street Belly Breathe   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_mZbzDOpylA&feature=emb_title
• Breathe Think Do Sesame Street App   https://apps.apple.com/us/app/breathe-think-do-with-sesame/id721853597   
• Yoga and meditation for young elementary https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oYI0TPJOuGk   https://awakeandmindful.com/best-kids-yoga-videos-on-youtube/
• Cosmic Kids Yoga and Mindfulness https://youtu.be/0ImHIWzP49M
• Therapist and Child Approved Activities to Support Kids with Anxiety (Ili Rivera Walter, PhD, LMFT)    https://familytherapybasics.com/blog/2017/10/8/10-therapist-and-child-approved-activities-to-support-kids-with-anxiety   

How Can I Help My Child at Home?

• Designate a comfortable place where your child will work independently on his/her assigned tasks.
• Be sure your child attends every online class daily and logs in on time, ready for the day’s learning experience and completes all assignments
• Remind your child to let his/her teachers know if there are questions- our teachers are there to support all of our students. 
• Monitor Google Classroom updates and be sure to check in with your child daily about learning tasks, activities and assessments they are working
• Dedicate appropriate time to learning, comparable to a school day and/or as guided by your teachers.
• Attend Zoom learning experiences that are offered by each of your teacher’s. 
• Please let your child’s teacher know if they will be absent- teachers are taking daily attendance based on in-person Zoom meetings and/or assignments turned in. 
• Help your child to understand that work will be graded this fall (appropriate to the grade level)- they will not be earning a participation grade like spring

Classroom Weekly Schedules

You may have already seen a copy of a sample elementary schedule for the first 5 weeks from the district website: https://www.allenparkschools.com/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=1856009&type=d&pREC_ID=2007551

Please keep in mind that each teacher will be building the specifics of each “block”, which will be sent to their families in their class.  You can expect that daily assignments will be posted by each morning, and that weekly you will receive an overview of learning targets every Monday morning.  

Please click on the link below to hear a brief explanation of the daily elementary schedule:

https://youtu.be/AJZZb-lHEwE

Although these times do not feel normal, we are all in this together, as it has always been at Arno- Together we will make that difference that will make our students excel!

Welcome Back!

Arno Staff

Arno on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arnoelementary

Arno Family Blog: https://arnofamily.edublogs.org/

Together we will succeed for our kids!

Coming soon to Arno…

Sept. 2

1st Day- morning “Wave In” 9-12 (Remote Plan with classroom teacher only)

Get to know you virtual afternoon with classroom teacher

AP Virtual Learning with Calvert First Day

Sept. 3

First full virtual day with classroom teacher

AP Virtual Learning with Calvert

Sept 4

Labor Day weekend- no school

Sept. 7

Labor Day- No school

Sept. 8-Oct. 2

Remote learning with classroom teacher

AP Virtual Learning with Calvert

Meet the Teacher

This year we have all of our staff on video doing a short introduction and some information on Google Classroom. The staff links will be out by Sept 2 via eblast.   Students will be getting to know their teacher more through their daily interactions on Zoom.

Online Attendance

Attendance will taken daily by your classroom teacher.  In most cases, students will be recorded as present through appearing on the classroom Zoom. There maybe some instances where your child is unable to do a Zoom that day- they can then be counted present by:

• Have a two-way conversation through email, phone, or communication app

• Turn in an assignment, exit ticket or question that day by 3:00

Assessment

Per the State of Michigan guidelines, Allen Park Schools will be required to have all students have an assessment that give us information on where our students are performing, so that we may better meet their individual needs.  Kindergarten and First grade will be taking a developmentally appropriate assessment, while grades 2-3 will be taking an online version of the NWEA they normally take in the fall.  Details, dates, and directions will come out in the coming weeks.

Welcome to Arno…

Kristi Kruger- Music (Thursdays)

“Kristi Kruger comes to us from Allen park High School where she served as vocal and instrumental music director for 22 years.  Kristi received her Bachelor and Masters degrees from Eastern Michigan University with a focus on Music education as well as Music theory and Literature.  Kristi’s career started teaching general music, spanning ages 18 months to 8 in the private sector before taking a position at Hamtramck High School for 2 years.  After that time she was recruited by Allen Park,
where her first assignments were teaching High School vocal, instrumental and music history, as well as teaching “Sing and Swing” Kindergarten music at all three elementary schools.   Kristi looks forward to sharing her passion for music with our students”

Dana Brown- Social Work (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday)

The Arno 2020-21 Staff

2020-21

Stephen Zielinski, Principal

Cathy Anderson, Secretary

Kim Dowd, Student Advocate

Custodial Staff:

Tim Tanksley

Joe Marcoux 

Tiffani Harper

Mike Matey

Lunch Staff/Para Professionals

Debbie Burgess-LatchKey Supervisor

Stevie Brandly

Colleen Harris

Stephanie Hauck

Kristen Melidosian

Katelyn Tourangeau

Penelope Beri

Sarah Tarmoom

Shelby Ivey

Cathy Bartholomew-Food service

Luciana Tucci-Cashier

Para Professional

Linda Mantua- Media Center

Angela Joarder- Instruct Support

Mikela Wilson- Instructional Support

Sandy Bove- Instruct Support

Kem Sheridan- Instruct Support

Carrie Vaughn- Instruct. Support

Amanda Madrigal- Instruct. Support

Missy Moore, instructional support

Diane Peyton- Special Ed.

Melissa McGrath- Special Ed. 

Antwanette Bills- Special Ed.

Kim Harrison, Special Ed. 

Stephanie Leavitt, ECP

Patty Messer, ECP

So awesome to see our Cougars at the

Summer Sendoff!!

**Be sure to check out more pics on our Face book page

https://www.facebook.com/pg/arnoelementary/posts/

Coming soon to Arno…

***All calendar dates are subject to change depending on the model of attendance that will be explored via CDC guidelines, State of Michigan guidelines, and Allen Park Public Schools guidelines

Sept. 1

Teachers report

Meet the Teacher (subject to change)

Sept. 2

School Begins- Full Day (Based on district model)

Sept. 3

No events

Sept. 4

No School- Labor Day recess

Sept. 7

No School- Labor Day

Sept 8

Students return (based on model)

Sept. 9

No events

Sept 10

No events

Sept. 11

No events

ARNO VISION

ARNO ELEMENTARY WILL PROVIDE A SYSTEM OF SUPPORT TO EMPOWER

AND INSPIRE STUDENTS TO BECOME COLLABORATIVE LEARNERS

THAT STRIVE FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

Happy Summer!

On behalf of the Arno staff, we wish you a fun, restful summer!  It has been a roller coaster ride to say the least, but our students and teachers stepped up and did a phenomenal job and finished the school year on a high note.  We are hoping to see everyone in the fall, until then, stay safe out there!

School Supply Lists are out and ready to go…

This year we are once again using Teacherlists.com to post all of our supplies.  You can access the lists down below from the click-button, or you can access from our Arno site off the main APPS website.  This feature also allows you to choose a store, if you wish, which auto sets up the list for purchase and lets you finish the process without ever setting foot in a store.

https://www.teacherlists.com/schools/31210-arno-elementary-school

Quick Info…

– The district will have a plan for chromebook collection.  You will be notified by email of the details

– Google Classrooms will remain on for the summer if there is anything you need to get resource wise

– The district currently has a focus group made up of teachers from all different groups.  Our task to make the buildings safe and have a plan to prioritize learning through the school year while the pandemic continues.

– Look for more info on Meet the Teacher as we get closer, much will depend on the status of the state.

Pics of Cougars in action 2019-20